Quick Facts
- Category
- Katame-Waza
- Subcategory
- Osaekomi-Waza
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Belt Level
- 4th kyu, 3rd kyu
Kami-Shiho-Gatame controls uke from above their head. Tori lies chest-to-chest with uke in the opposite direction, reaching both arms down to grip uke's belt at the hips. The position pins both of uke's shoulders simultaneously with body weight from directly above, making it one of the most powerful hold-downs against a strong uke.
Kami-Shiho-Gatame — Step by Step
- 1
Approach uke from above their head
Position yourself directly above uke's head, with your own head pointing toward uke's feet and your chest facing downward toward uke's chest.
- 2
Reach both arms under uke's shoulders
Slide both arms under uke's shoulders, reaching through to grip their belt at the hip area. Alternatively, grip the mat alongside uke's body.
- 3
Drive your chest and abdomen onto uke's chest
Lower your chest and abdomen onto uke's chest. Your sternum presses on uke's upper sternum; your abdomen covers uke's face. Both contact points add pressure and reduce uke's vision and breathing space.
- 4
Extend your legs for a wide, stable base
Extend both legs wide behind you, toes on the mat. The wider your base, the harder to roll. Avoid having your knees up.
- 5
Squeeze your elbows inward
As you hold, squeeze your elbows in against uke's sides to prevent them from creating space. Keep your body heavy and connected.
What Makes It Work
- The upper approach pins both shoulders simultaneously — this is what distinguishes it from side holds.
- Weight distribution from above is particularly powerful against uke's bridge attempts.
- Arm reach should be to belt level — too short (just under the shoulder blades) reduces control of uke's lower body.
- Wide leg base: the further your feet are apart, the more stable and heavy you are.
What to Avoid
Body position too upright — not enough chest contact
Drive your full chest weight onto uke. A lifted chest greatly reduces control.
Arms reaching too shallow (not to belt)
Reach through deeply. Shallow arm position doesn't control uke's lower body and they can bridge.
Legs too close together — high center of gravity
Spread legs wide and extend them straight. Bent knees behind you raise your hips and make you easy to roll.
Best Moments to Apply Kami-Shiho-Gatame
Kami-Shiho-Gatame is the natural progression when you are positioned above uke's head — often after transitioning from a north-south position, or when uke rolls onto their back from a standing throw. It is particularly powerful when uke has a strong bridge defense against side holds.